A review by courtney_reads_stories
Cleo McDougal Regrets Nothing: A Novel by Allison Winn Scotch
2.0
Cleo McDougal is not a nice person, nor is she particularly likable. She is closed off and somewhat self absorbed while being rather self-unaware. Cleo McDougal is flawed, but aren't we all?
I cannot say I particularly enjoyed this book, but nor did I dislike it. It just is what it is. A semi-biographical novel of many an early middle-agged woman in today's America. There were parts that were completely relatable, parts that felt totally contrived, and a large portion that was just there to fill the pages and somehow propel the story forward. The characters, yes even the titular Cleo didn't feel particularly full or well rounded, but still felt relatable and like people you may encounter in your life. There was a considerable amount of "adult language" which sometimes did feel gratuitous and like the author simply needed to remind us that she could use these words because she herself is a strong woman who does whatever she pleases.
Am I glad to have crossed this off my read list, sure. Would I read it again, no. Am I likely to recommend it to a friend looking for their next great read, probably not.
I cannot say I particularly enjoyed this book, but nor did I dislike it. It just is what it is. A semi-biographical novel of many an early middle-agged woman in today's America. There were parts that were completely relatable, parts that felt totally contrived, and a large portion that was just there to fill the pages and somehow propel the story forward. The characters, yes even the titular Cleo didn't feel particularly full or well rounded, but still felt relatable and like people you may encounter in your life. There was a considerable amount of "adult language" which sometimes did feel gratuitous and like the author simply needed to remind us that she could use these words because she herself is a strong woman who does whatever she pleases.
Am I glad to have crossed this off my read list, sure. Would I read it again, no. Am I likely to recommend it to a friend looking for their next great read, probably not.